Juan Tavares received both his undergraduate and graduate degrees from Michigan State University’s College of Education. With experience from Bronson Hospital, Northwestern University, Kalamazoo College, and Michigan State University, Tavares began work at Western Michigan University (WMU) in 2006. As Director of International Admissions and Services, he is responsible for the recruitment, admission and retention of international students. His tenure at WMU has resulted in a substantial growth of the international population from 960 students in 2007 to over 1,800 today. In his free time, Tavares enjoys swimming and spending time with his four children.

As the director of International Admissions and Services, Tavares' primary responsibilities include: